Matt Bell, a front runner in this season's Avon Tyres British GT Championship has become a BRDC Rising Star after impressing the current members.

Avon Tyres British GT Championship front runner Matt Bell has been selected as the latest driver to become a British Racing Drivers Club (BRDC) Rising Star.

Bell, who currently drives for United Autosports in the GT Championship won his place on the program by impressing the current members of the BRDC. The scheme is open to drivers under the age of 24 – the 'junior members' of the BRDC who are aiming for a career as a professional racing driver.

“I'm delighted, if pleasantly surprised, to have been selected for the BRDC 'Rising Stars' program,” said Bell. “I'm only just coming to the end of my second full season in the sport and so to receive this type of recognition so early in my career is very unexpected!”

“United Autosports has played a major role in allowing my career to get to this stage so I am extremely grateful to the team. I've raced with them in the FIA GT3 European Championship since 2010 and I'm in contention for the British GT Championship title with two races remaining. So I must thank UA Co-Owners Zak Brown and Richard Dean for the opportunity they handed me which in turn has allowed me to be noticed by the BRDC.”

Bell, with co-driver Michael Guasch is second in the British GT Championship points standings with two rounds remaining. The Anglo-American pairing had held the points lead since May, but lost their advantage after the two races at Rockingham on September 4.